Ashley Manor Care Center in Boonville is continuing its Valentine's King and Queen Royal Court tradition with votes paid for (25 cents each) by family and community members. This year the money will benefit the Boonville Animal Shelter. Voting has commenced and will end on February 14.

The two people chosen as King and Queen will represent Ashley Manor throughout the year in such events like the Heritage Days parade.

The Royal Court has been an Ashley Manor tradition for almost 20 years but recently the money raised has been going towards helping organizations within the community. In the past organizations such as the Boonslick Senior Center, the Salvation Army and the Missouri Heart Association have benefited from large donations from this event.

Money for votes can be brought in person where people will get to see the residents. Votes can be sent on a separate piece of paper in the mail with checks or money orders made out to the Boonville Animal Shelter.

This year Activity Director Velma Lang is excited about helping the animals of the Boonville area.

"We will be pleased with any donation anyone wants to give for the animals of our area," Lang said.

On February 14 the crowning will occur with a celebration of Valentines cake and punch while the 2013 Duke and Duchess, Prince and Princess and King and Queen are crowned.